Description
There’s something irresistible about the smoky, spicy, and savory flavors packed into this Jalapeño-Onion Smash Burger. With its crispy edges, melted cheese, and a bold topping of jalapeños and caramelized onions, it’s the perfect burger for a fun, flavorful meal. This recipe is quick to prepare and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 1–2 fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 4 slices cheddar or American cheese
- 4 burger buns, toasted
Optional Add-Ons:
- Lettuce, tomato, or pickles for extra crunch
- Chipotle mayo or your favorite burger sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Toppings
- Heat the butter and olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced onions and sauté for 6-8 minutes until softened and golden brown.
- Toss in the sliced jalapeños and cook for 2-3 more minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Patties
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and loosely shape them into balls. Do not overwork the meat.
- Heat the cast iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat until very hot.
- Place the beef balls on the skillet and smash them flat using a spatula (use parchment paper between the spatula and meat to prevent sticking).
- Season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes until crispy. Flip, add a slice of cheese to each patty, and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Burgers
- Toast the burger buns on the skillet until lightly golden.
- Spread chipotle mayo or your preferred sauce on the bottom bun.
- Add the cooked patty with melted cheese, then pile on the sautéed onions and jalapeños.
- Top with any additional desired toppings, then crown with the top bun.
Notes
- Use High-Quality Beef: An 80/20 blend ensures juiciness and flavor.
- Smash Quickly: Press down on the patties right after placing them in the skillet to get those crispy edges.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Remove the seeds from the jalapeños for a milder heat or add pickled jalapeños for extra tang.
- Don’t Skip the Bun Toasting: A lightly toasted bun prevents sogginess and adds a nice crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American